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Arthritis News

Men who drink two or more sugar sweetened sodas daily are at increased risk of gout.

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Arthritis News

New estimates reaffirm that nearly 1 in 5 US adults have arthritis.

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^{About Fibromyalgia:}

Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, and multiple tender points.  (Those refer to precise, localized areas, particularly in the neck, spine, shoulders, and hips).   People with this syndrome may also have problems with sleep disturbances, morning stiffness, irritable bowel syndrome, and anxiety.

According to the American College of Rheumatology (ACR), fibromyalgia affects 3-6 million Americans.  Mostly in woman of childbearing age, but children, the elderly, and men can also be affected.

What causes Fibromyalgia?

Bottom line, they just don’t know. There are several theories: one being that it may be caused by and injury or trauma. This injury may affect the central nervous system. Or, it could be associated with muscle metabolism, such as decreased blood flow, causing fatigue and decreased strength.  And there are others who believe that the syndrome may be triggered by an infectious agent such as a virus in susceptible people, however, no such agent has been identified.

How is Fibromyalgia Diagnosed?

Fibromyalgia is difficult to diagnose because the symptoms often mimic those of other disorders.  Your doctor will review your medical history and may make a diagnosis based on a history of chronic widespread pain that persists for more than 3 months.  There is a criterion that the ACR has developed which your doctor if a person is considered to have widespread pain in combination with tenderness in at least 11 to 18 specific tender point sites.

How is Fibromyalgia Treated?

The treatment for fibromyalgia will require your physician, a physical therapist, and you all to play an active role in the management of the disease. Studies have shown that aerobic exercise, such as swimming and walking, improve muscle fitness, and reduce pain and tenderness.  Heat and message may also give short-term relief. Antidepressant medications may help elevate mood, improve sleep quality, and relax muscles. A combination of exercise, medication, physical therapy, and relaxation can help you live well with fibromyalgia.